We arrive at 9.30 in the morning. Outside it is 40C but a lot more comfortable than Darwin being so dry. We drag our bags across town, over the bridge crossing the bone dry Todd River to our hostel where we are offered a choice of accommodation – an old bus or a shed. Both were actually nicely furnished, quite comfortable with a/c and a fridge in the bus. Sue chooses the shed which she prefers to call the ‘Wendy House’, because it has a veranda.
After settling in we walk back to explore the town. This is the second largest town in NT and is probably the size of Chippenham or Stroud. We have lunch in a café then look at the old hospital, the oldest building in Alice dating to 1926. It was set up by John Flynn who travelled the area as a camel-riding padre and was involved with the early Flying Doctor service, pedal driven radios and other innovations. Quite a remarkable character.
Back at the hostel we are able to access WiFi and Sue skypes Alex before he goes to work.
